Shovelling Manure

(Sorry for those who like short and simple messages, this is neither.)

"For I do not want you to be unaware, brethren, that our fathers were all under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; and all were baptised into Moses in the cloud and in the sea; and all ate the same spiritual food; and all drank the same spiritual drink, for they were drinking from a spiritual rock which followed them; and the rock was Christ.

"Nevertheless, with most of them God was not well-pleased; for they were laid low in the wilderness.  Now these things happened as examples for us, that we should not crave evil things, as they also craved.  And do not be idolaters, as some of them were; as it is written, 'The people sat down to eat and drink, and stood up to play.' 

"Nor let us act immorally, as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand fell in one day.  Nor let us try the Lord as some of them did, and were destroyed by the serpents.  Nor grumble, as some of them did, and were destroyed by the destroyer.

"Now these things happened to them as an example, and they were written for our instruction, upon whom the ends of the ages have come.  Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall. 

"No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also , that you may be able to endure it." I Corinthians 10:1-13

Once upon a time there was a young girl, let's say she is seven, which is a good age if you think about it.  But this little girl is a worry to her parents because she always sees the sunny side, the good in whatever happens, the forever optimist.

The parents want her to be ready for the harshness of the world and decide on a way to help her face reality.  They contact a farmer and ask him to deliver a truckload of manure and to dump it into the little girl's playroom. 

The smell is impossible to imagine and the parents are a bit doubtful but think something dramatic is necessary if they are going to 'break her spirit and optimism'. 

The little girl races home from school, changes into her play clothes and asks if she has time to play before dinner.  They tell her she has lots of time.

She races to her playroom, opens the door and goes right in, closing the door behind her.  The parents lurk outside the door, just waiting for her to flee from her playroom. 

Ten, fifteen, twenty minutes pass and she is still in there and the parents are sure they hear humming.  They cannot wait another moment and open the door, holding their noses from the smell. 

They see their little daughter with her beach sand pail and her sand shovel, merrily shovelling manure into the pail and walking to the other side of her playroom, to dump it on a small mountain of the stuff already there.

The parents are not sure whether to be angry or concerned and the mother says, "What do you think you are DOING!?" 

The little girl stops her labour and looks up and says merrily, "Well, Mommy, with all this manure in here, there just HAS to be a pony!"

Look back over 2016, focus on the piles of manure you've faced and gotten through.  Take time to search for the ponies (the blessings) in all the dreadful, sad, hurtful, lonely, chaotic, painful and hopeless things that have happened...because there ARE ponies there. 

Thank God that He loves you enough to -- not just send His compassionate and gracious Son to save you -- but that He also provides the ponies in the depth of your despair for your good and His glory.

Take care with love, especially His!  Your servant and friend in Christ, who prays for you each morning, Darlene

PS:  My statement of faith is on the blog:  Especially His Love .  Either click the link or cut and paste this link in your Web browser (http://especiallyhislove.blogspot.com.au/ )

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST

• ·        UPDATE - Adrian -   Was feeling strong enough to go for a couple of walks with Toby over the holidays thanks to the doctors doubling his pain meds.  Please do not grow weary of praying for this man.  Pray God's mercy that someone in that hospital will sincerely and vigorously help him.  Perhaps being poor and expecting public service health care to be competent and compassionate is too much to ask...but not of our Lord!  Also remember his little companion dog, Toby, who is very important to Adrian's mental well-being and a clear gift from the Lord during this time of pain and loneliness. 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS

• ·        Carla and Paul - have purchased a house in the States and will be moving in right after the New Year.  Pray for patience and safety during this time.
• ·        Elina - that the Lord watches over her in a special way and calms her heart and gives her needed wisdom to consider a new challenge.
• ·        Pray for travelling mercies for all those going to meet family and friends over the Christmas and holiday seasons, that they are safe and have ample opportunities to share the greatest Present of all with at least one person during the season.

PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

• ·        Me - Have two potential projects.  First meetings with clients on 4th (for a two-month project) and on the 9th of January (for a six-month project).  In the meantime, many things are unravelling but I am deeply grateful for the many prayers carrying me over this very hard place. 
• ·        Careena S - was diagnosed with MS.  They now suspect Lyme's Disease.  She is a beautiful battler with a quiet and gentle heart for the Lord.  She shared her thanks for each of you praying for her and reports that she has been feeling steadier on her feet the past weeks!
• ·        Mel - (Meldapilu) is now home recovering from an accident where she had to have a hip and knee replacement.  She is surprising the doctors with her progress.  Pray for her healing and that there are family and friends available to care for her during her long recovery time and that she is sensibly patient.
• ·        Steve/ Fion -  has finally taken some time to refresh and recover from the many losses and heavy workload he has been under the last few years.  Pray for his strength, more funding for his university and wisdom for the organisation.
• ·        UPDATE - Doris - Just celebrated her 98th birthday on 22 Dec. and she looks great and seems to be strengthening more every day.  
• ·        Fin/Spencer - feeling better now from his surgery and is scheduled for hip surgery in January.  Pray for his doctors and therapists that he will recover completely and have friends with him during this time, especially Deborah.
• ·        Hans - (in West Germany) his therapy now extended till March 2017 - a full nine months.  He begins working two half-days a week in a store.  He sounds happy.  Pray the Lord gives him peace in his new situation and guards his family while he is away.  Pray for those sharing this time with him that they truly care for him.  Most of all, pray he finds Christian companions and leaders wherever he is. 
• ·        Raven - who has been on her new cancer meds for over a year now, reports she is able to enjoy every moment the Lord is giving her.  Pray she will be found cancer-free.
• ·        Praise the Lord and pray for the many individuals in Russia, US, Australia, UK, Poland, Germany, France, Portugal, American Samoa, Romania, Ukraine, Estonia, Singapore, China, India and Alaska who are regularly reading the WeakDay Devotion on-line.  The blog seems to be gathering an audience in unexpected and mysterious geographic locations.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH ONGOING HEALTH CONCERNS

• ·        My brother, Tim - The weather is growing difficult for him.  Pray for sufficient strength, wisdom and health and pray also for Barb, Tim's wife, who supports and cares for him.  
• ·        David R - having blood pressure challenges again without his companion dog.  The Service Dog will not be available till June.  In the meantime, he is also looking for another lap dog.  
• ·        Fred I – will have surgery 10th January.  He thanks you for praying for him.  Continue to keep him in your prayers.
• ·        Patti (daughter of Doris) just had her birthday and has recently been diagnosed with asthma and is slowly improving.
• ·        BG - still having headaches (which they believe are mini-strokes).  He needs our prayers to strengthen him and keep him calm.  
• ·        Aunt Donna - (Doris' sister, age 84) has dementia. Please pray for her daughters for guidance in her care.
• ·        Joanne - sister to David R, who is being overwhelmed by dementia and macular degeneration.  She is one of the most gracious Christian women I have ever known. 
• ·        John and brother CK (78 years old)  both suffered strokes. Both now doing well with stroke recovery, but they get discouraged with memory recall challenges.  Please pray for more patience and grace. 
• ·        Sandy - Tests are inconclusive, yet her symptoms persist.  Pray for wise doctors.  They suspect Crohn's Disease.

PRAYERS SPECIFICALLY FOR SALVATION

• ·        Continue to pray for the special person you identified a few weeks ago in your assignment until they fall into His arms.  Then you can pick another to pray for!
• ·        Bobby and George - that they will begin to consider Christ.
• ·        Karen - who I spoke with recently about the Lord, that in her confusion and the chaos of her job, she will search for His peace.
• ·        JR's wife, Jenny - Please pray for Jenny and his family as they recover from his death that this time of vulnerability will be filled with His love. 
• ·        Adam - life is filled with confusion and need.  Pray someone comes alongside him to help him see how much the Lord cares for him.
• ·        Rachael asks please to pray that Scott (in the USA) seeks the Lord for his sake and his children.
• ·        Paul - is on a waiting list to have a surgical procedure to repair an injury he sustained while volunteering at Vinnies.  Pray for his heart to be touched through the experience.  I know the Lord is watching over him because of your prayers.  Most of all, pray his heart melts enough for the Truth to touch him where it hurts.  He has not had work since 2011!
• ·        Bible study in Jo's home continues.  You can feel Jo's excitement as these women grow a step closer to understanding how loving the Lord Jesus is! Keep praying for Angie and Liz.
• ·        Toron - (18-year-old) Pray for him to find direction and encouragement and most of all to come to the Lord. 
• ·        Lennie - PS ex-son-in-law.  Please pray for his salvation.  He is father to PS' 11 yr. old granddaughter's whom she spends half her time with because of shared custody.
• ·        UPDATE -Sarah - still urgently needs psychiatric care.  Still not communicating with family members, but God is starting to work in His mysterious ways in her life.  Pray the Lord captures her heart through this situation and that she will find someone to trust to help her. 
• ·        DB's father - (84 years) please keep praying his heart opens to Christ.  He is an avowed – and boastfully proud – atheist. 
• ·        Chester (Adrian's friend) with pancreatic cancer that someone will come share Christ with him soon.

ONGOING WORK RELATED

• ·        Sergio - his projects have ended and he is looking for work again.  He is in Mexico City where work for graphic designers is rare. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD

• ·        That the Lord's hand is dramatically apparent in the lives of all who receive and read these devotions.  That His mighty works will be worked out in each life for His purposes and glory in surprising and wonderful ways!
• ·        For Christ-centred, Bible-based revival in the USA and religious freedom for Christians wherever they may be.
• ·        Donald Trump - the new president-elect in the USA.  If ever there was a time to pray for an individual, it is now.  No matter whom you voted for or wanted as president...it is our responsibility as Christians to remember God has a plan through this man.  Let us pray someone helps him understand the full meaning of giving his life in faith to our gracious Saviour and that he will have someone to disciple him.  So much depends on it.
• ·        Pray for the growing number of displaced people from wars and famine.  These refugees need compassion.

FOR THOSE IN FULL-TIME SERVICE

• ·        Audley and Beverly (stroke survivor) for help with their situation.  They recently received word Medicaid will no longer provide home care for her.  Pray for wisdom for Audley as he cares for his beloved.  Pray also that God continues to multiply the effectiveness of his radio ministry in Florida.
• ·        Doug McIntosh - an invaluable contributor to my love of Bible study has multiple myelomas.  Please pray for him, his family and the church he has worked so faithfully in, Cornerstone, in Lilburn Georgia.
• ·        St Marks Anglican Church Northbridge - and the many who serve there:  especially the pastors: Simon Flinders, Adam Street (and their amazing wives and children).
• ·        Jo and Steve - Please pray their individual ministries in NZ and reconciliation with one of Jo's sisters. 
• ·        Stu and Jo and their grown children, Laura and Jason - a family serving in full-time ministry in New Zealand.  Keep them strong, healthy and resolute. 
• ·        Isaias and Judith - in the Philippines - a land that is growing increasingly chaotic and dangerous.  Pray our Father continues to keep them strong and safe and that they find balance.  They give so much to so many for so little.  Please, take a moment to learn more about their tireless ministry:  Go to:  http://www.afciworld.org  Look for "Nations" then click:   "Philippines".
• ·        Jenny S - a Bible teacher and expositor who serves in many areas, for strength, wisdom and protection.
• ·        Please pray for my good friend, JB, that our loving Father provides him ample opportunity to continue his ministry in Sydney.
• ·        Buddy and Susan Smith (in Queensland) and Kevin and Sandy Currell (in Melbourne) need your prayers for their ministries.
• ·        The Catholic Church and the Pope, who need our prayers that he will always put Jesus first in all his decisions.

SOMETHING NEW FOR PRAYER WARRIORS

• ·        Elaine and Jim -in Hong Kong have begun an online church with a special prayer room that is open 24/7.  A small army of dedicated prayer warriors is waiting to pray with you.  Please pray for them and go here to learn more:  Https://www.thelittlechurchworld.org/prayer-room

ONGOING PRAYER

• ·        Deepak - has worked tirelessly for years to develop his business and needs people to pay what they owe him and give him more time with his young daughter.   
• ·        Chris H - pray his heart is focused on the Lord and His will for his life and future.
• ·        Linda and Ian, Rob and his daughter, DB, PS, Reg, JD, Annette and Lyle, Carla and Paul, Jeff and Rachael and their wonderful families.  Grateful thanks for their practical support and encouragement over many years.

The Wobegone Nation

"Then Darius the king wrote to all the peoples, nations, and men of every language who were living in all the land:  'May your peace abound!  I make a decree that in all the dominion of my kingdom men are to fear and tremble before the God of Daniel;

"'For He is the living God and enduring forever, and His kingdom is one which will not be destroyed, and His dominion will be forever.

"'He delivers and rescues and performs signs and wonders in heaven and on earth.  Who has also delivered Daniel from the power of the lions.'" Daniel 6:25-27

Daniel had determined not to compromise his daily habit of praying.  Now, it is important to note that Daniel was respectful.  He was in a foreign place.  He did not act in a disrespectful way for the rules.  He did not pray as an open and defiant demonstration, with fist flung up in the air, daring anyone to stop him.  

He prayed in the privacy of his own home and I imagine with other like-minded friends at times.  It was his faithfulness that grated on those who were jealous of him.

Israel had been conquered and pretty much destroyed.  Many were killed, survivors were made captive and a select group was to be brainwashed out of their belief in God.  This "Wobegon" nation of believers was isolated and overwhelmed by those who now held power over them. 

Yet Daniel and his friends gave us the example to follow when a nation loses its way; when believers are captive of a nation that would compromise their basic beliefs. 

It is time for us to unite and pray, pray alone and pray regularly, before the freedoms of Christians and Christian nations around the world is trampled underfoot to satisfy the lusts and longings so prevalent today, yet we know wherever the Church is persecuted it grows and strengthens.

Take care with love, especially His!  Your servant and friend in Christ, who prays for you each morning, Darlene

PS:  My statement of faith is on the blog:  Especially His Love .  Either click the link or cut and paste this link in your Web browser (http://especiallyhislove.blogspot.com.au/ )

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST

• ·        UPDATE - Adrian -   Was feeling strong enough to go for a couple of walks with Toby over the holidays thanks to the doctors doubling his pain meds.  Please do not grow weary of praying for this man.  Pray God's mercy that someone in that hospital will sincerely and vigorously help him.  Perhaps being poor and expecting public service health care to be competent and compassionate is too much to ask...but not of our Lord!  Also remember his little companion dog, Toby, who is very important to Adrian's mental well-being and a clear gift from the Lord during this time of pain and loneliness. 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS

• ·        Carla and Paul - have purchased a house in the States and will be moving in right after the New Year.  Pray for patience and safety during this time.
• ·        Elina - that the Lord watches over her in a special way and calms her heart and gives her needed wisdom to consider a new challenge.
• ·        Pray for travelling mercies for all those going to meet family and friends over the Christmas and holiday seasons, that they are safe and have ample opportunities to share the greatest Present of all with at least one person during the season.

PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

• ·        Me - Will be here over the Christmas.  Have two potential projects.  First meetings with clients on 4th (for a two month project) and on the 9th of January (for a six-month project).  In the meantime many things are unravelling but I am deeply grateful for the many prayers carrying me over this very hard place. 
• ·        Careena S - was diagnosed with MS.  They now suspect Lyme's Disease.  She is a beautiful battler with a quiet and gentle heart for the Lord.  She shared her thanks for each of you praying for her and reports that she has been feeling steadier on her feet the past weeks!
• ·        Mel - (Meldapilu) is now home recovering from an accident where she had to have a hip and knee replacement.  She is surprising the doctors with her progress.  Pray for her healing and that there are family and friends available to care for her during her long recovery time and that she is sensibly patient.
• ·        Steve/ Fion -  has finally taken some time to refresh and recover from the many losses and heavy workload he has been under the last few years.  Pray for his strength, more funding for his university and wisdom for the organisation.
• ·        UPDATE - Doris - Just celebrated her 98th birthday on 22 Dec. and she looks great and seems to be strengthening more every day.  
• ·        Fin/Spencer - feeling better now from his surgery and is scheduled for hip surgery in January.  Pray for his doctors and therapists that he will recover completely and have friends with him during this time, especially Deborah.
• ·        Hans - (in West Germany) his therapy now extended till March 2017 - a full nine months.  He begins working two half-days a week in a store.  He sounds happy.  Pray the Lord gives him peace in his new situation and guards his family while he is away.  Pray for those sharing this time with him that they truly care for him.  Most of all, pray he finds Christian companions and leaders wherever he is. 
• ·        Raven - who has been on her new cancer meds for over a year now, reports she is able to enjoy every moment the Lord is giving her.  Pray she will be found cancer-free.
• ·        Praise the Lord and pray for the many individuals in Russia, US, Australia, UK, Poland, Germany, France, Portugal, American Samoa, Romania, Ukraine, Estonia, Singapore, China, India and Alaska who are regularly reading the WeakDay Devotion on-line.  The blog seems to be gathering an audience in unexpected and mysterious geographic locations.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH ONGOING HEALTH CONCERNS

• ·        My brother, Tim - The weather is growing difficult for him.  Pray for sufficient strength, wisdom and health and pray also for Barb, Tim's wife, who supports and cares for him.  
• ·        David R - having blood pressure challenges again without his companion dog.  The Service Dog will not be available till June.  In the meantime, he is also looking for another lap dog.  
• ·        Fred I – will have surgery 10th January.  He thanks you for praying for him.  Continue to keep him in your prayers.
• ·        Patti (daughter of Doris) just had her birthday and has recently been diagnosed with asthma and is slowly improving.
• ·        BG - still having headaches (which they believe are mini-strokes).  He needs our prayers to strengthen him and keep him calm.  
• ·        Aunt Donna - (Doris' sister, age 84) has dementia. Please pray for her daughters for guidance in her care.
• ·        Joanne - sister to David R, who is being overwhelmed by dementia and macular degeneration.  She is one of the most gracious Christian women I have ever known. 
• ·        John and brother CK (78 years old)  both suffered strokes. Both now doing well with stroke recovery, but they get discouraged with memory recall challenges.  Please pray for more patience and grace. 
• ·        Sandy - Tests are inconclusive, yet her symptoms persist.  Pray for wise doctors.  They suspect Crohn's Disease.

PRAYERS SPECIFICALLY FOR SALVATION

• ·        Continue to pray for the special person you identified a few weeks ago in your assignment until they fall into His arms.  Then you can pick another to pray for!
• ·        Bobby and George - that they will begin to consider Christ.
• ·        Karen - who I spoke with recently about the Lord, that in her confusion and the chaos of her job, she will search for His peace.
• ·        JR's wife, Jenny - Please pray for Jenny and his family as they recover from his death that this time of vulnerability will be filled with His love. 
• ·        Adam - life is filled with confusion and need.  Pray someone comes alongside him to help him see how much the Lord cares for him.
• ·        Rachael asks please to pray that Scott (in the USA) seeks the Lord for his sake and his children.
• ·        Paul - is on a waiting list to have a surgical procedure to repair an injury he sustained while volunteering at Vinnies.  Pray for his heart to be touched through the experience.  I know the Lord is watching over him because of your prayers.  Most of all, pray his heart melts enough for the Truth to touch him where it hurts.  He has not had work since 2011!
• ·        Bible study in Jo's home continues.  You can feel Jo's excitement as these women grow a step closer to understanding how loving the Lord Jesus is! Keep praying for Angie and Liz.
• ·        Toron - (18-year-old) Pray for him to find direction and encouragement and most of all to come to the Lord. 
• ·        Lennie - PS ex-son-in-law.  Please pray for his salvation.  He is father to PS' 11 yr. old granddaughter's whom she spends half her time with because of shared custody.
• ·        UPDATE -Sarah - still urgently needs psychiatric care.  Still not communicating with family members, but God is starting to work in His mysterious ways in her life.  Pray the Lord captures her heart through this situation and that she will find someone to trust to help her. 
• ·        DB's father - (84 years) please keep praying his heart opens to Christ.  He is an avowed – and boastfully proud – atheist. 
• ·        Chester (Adrian's friend) with pancreatic cancer that someone will come share Christ with him soon.

ONGOING WORK RELATED

• ·        Sergio - his projects have ended and he is looking for work again.  He is in Mexico City where work for graphic designers is rare. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD

• ·        That the Lord's hand is dramatically apparent in the lives of all who receive and read these devotions.  That His mighty works will be worked out in each life for His purposes and glory in surprising and wonderful ways!
• ·        For Christ-centred, Bible-based revival in the USA and religious freedom for Christians wherever they may be.
• ·        Donald Trump - the new president-elect in the USA.  If ever there was a time to pray for an individual, it is now.  No matter whom you voted for or wanted as president...it is our responsibility as Christians to remember God has a plan through this man.  Let us pray someone helps him understand the full meaning of giving his life in faith to our gracious Saviour and that he will have someone to disciple him.  So much depends on it.
• ·        Pray for the growing number of displaced people from wars and famine.  These refugees need compassion.

FOR THOSE IN FULL-TIME SERVICE

• ·        Audley and Beverly (stroke survivor) for help with their situation.  They recently received word Medicaid will no longer provide home care for her.  Pray for wisdom for Audley as he cares for his beloved.  Pray also that God continues to multiply the effectiveness of his radio ministry in Florida.
• ·        Doug McIntosh - an invaluable contributor to my love of Bible study has multiple myelomas.  Please pray for him, his family and the church he has worked so faithfully in, Cornerstone, in Lilburn Georgia.
• ·        St Marks Anglican Church Northbridge - and the many who serve there:  especially the pastors: Simon Flinders, Adam Street (and their amazing wives and children).
• ·        Jo and Steve - Please pray their individual ministries in NZ and reconciliation with one of Jo's sisters. 
• ·        Stu and Jo and their grown children, Laura and Jason - a family serving in full-time ministry in New Zealand.  Keep them strong, healthy and resolute. 
• ·        Isaias and Judith - in the Philippines - a land that is growing increasingly chaotic and dangerous.  Pray our Father continues to keep them strong and safe and that they find balance.  They give so much to so many for so little.  Please, take a moment to learn more about their tireless ministry:  Go to:  http://www.afciworld.org  Look for "Nations" then click:   "Philippines".
• ·        Jenny S - a Bible teacher and expositor who serves in many areas, for strength, wisdom and protection.
• ·        Please pray for my good friend, JB, that our loving Father provides him ample opportunity to continue his ministry in Sydney.
• ·        Buddy and Susan Smith (in Queensland) and Kevin and Sandy Currell (in Melbourne) need your prayers for their ministries.
• ·        The Catholic Church and the Pope, who need our prayers that he will always put Jesus first in all his decisions.

SOMETHING NEW FOR PRAYER WARRIORS

• ·        Elaine and Jim -in Hong Kong have begun an online church with a special prayer room that is open 24/7.  A small army of dedicated prayer warriors is waiting to pray with you.  Please pray for them and go here to learn more:  Https://www.thelittlechurchworld.org/prayer-room

ONGOING PRAYER

• ·        Deepak - has worked tirelessly for years to develop his business and needs people to pay what they owe him and give him more time with his young daughter.   
• ·        Chris H - pray his heart is focused on the Lord and His will for his life and future.
• ·        Linda and Ian, Rob and his daughter, DB, PS, Reg, JD, Annette and Lyle, Carla and Paul, Jeff and Rachael and their wonderful families.  Grateful thanks for their practical support and encouragement over many years.

Being a Pearl

"Then He left the multitudes, and went into the house.  And His disciples came to Him, saying, 'Explain to us the parable of the tares of the field.'  And He answered and said,

·        'The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man,

·        and the field is the world;

·        and as for the good seed, these are the sons of the kingdom;

·        and the tares are the sons of the evil one;

·        and the enemy who sowed them is the devil,

·        and the harvest is the end of the age;

·        and the reapers are angels. 

"'Therefore just as the tares are gathered up and burned with fire, so shall it be at the end of the age.  The Son of Man will send forth His angels, and they will gather out of His kingdom all stumbling blocks, and those who commit lawlessness, and will cast them into the furnace of fire; in that place there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.  Then the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. 

He who has ears, let him hear.

"'The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in the field, which a man found and hid; and from joy over it he goes and sells all that he has, and buys that field.  Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking fine pearls, and upon finding one of great value he went and sold all that he had, and bought it.'" Matthew 13:36-46

I came across an article about someone finding the world's largest pearl (http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-37167179 ) and what a media-worthy event it was.  It told how large it was, that it weighed over 72 pounds, etc. 

And it got me thinking of how Jesus likened finding His truth was invaluable and worth losing everything for. 

As we look toward a New Year, when the custom is to clear the decks of past mistakes and to start with a clean slate and lots of enthusiasm for what awaits us.  It is good to remember that this is the offer of Jesus Christ to each of us for our new lives in Him.  Once we are His children each new day we are granted a fresh start. 

"Spiritual Soap" (I John 1:-8-10) has a value above the value of the greatest pearl God ever allowed to be created and it can be used as we start each new day.

Take care with love, especially His!  Your servant and friend in Christ, who prays for you each morning, Darlene

PS:  My statement of faith is on the blog:  Especially His Love .  Either click the link or cut and paste this link in your Web browser (http://especiallyhislove.blogspot.com.au/ )

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST

• ·        UPDATE - Adrian -   Was feeling strong enough to go for a couple of walks with Toby over the holidays thanks to the doctors doubling his pain meds.  Please do not grow weary of praying for this man.  Pray God's mercy that someone in that hospital will sincerely and vigorously help him.  Perhaps being poor and expecting public service health care to be competent and compassionate is too much to ask...but not of our Lord!  Also remember his little companion dog, Toby, who is very important to Adrian's mental well-being and a clear gift from the Lord during this time of pain and loneliness. 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS

• ·        Carla and Paul - have purchased a house in the States and will be moving in right after the New Year.  Pray for patience and safety during this time.
• ·        Elina - that the Lord watches over her in a special way and calms her heart and gives her needed wisdom to consider a new challenge.
• ·        Pray for travelling mercies for all those going to meet family and friends over the Christmas and holiday seasons, that they are safe and have ample opportunities to share the greatest Present of all with at least one person during the season.

PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING

• ·        Me - Will be here over the Christmas.  Have two potential projects.  First meetings with clients on 4th (for a two month project) and on the 9th of January (for a six-month project).  In the meantime many things are unravelling but I am deeply grateful for the many prayers carrying me over this very hard place. 
• ·        Careena S - was diagnosed with MS.  They now suspect Lyme's Disease.  She is a beautiful battler with a quiet and gentle heart for the Lord.  She shared her thanks for each of you praying for her and reports that she has been feeling steadier on her feet the past weeks!
• ·        Mel - (Meldapilu) is now home recovering from an accident where she had to have a hip and knee replacement.  She is surprising the doctors with her progress.  Pray for her healing and that there are family and friends available to care for her during her long recovery time and that she is sensibly patient.
• ·        Steve/ Fion -  has finally taken some time to refresh and recover from the many losses and heavy workload he has been under the last few years.  Pray for his strength, more funding for his university and wisdom for the organisation.
• ·        UPDATE - Doris - Just celebrated her 98th birthday on 22 Dec. and she looks great and seems to be strengthening more every day.   
• ·        Fin/Spencer - feeling better now from his surgery and is scheduled for hip surgery in January.  Pray for his doctors and therapists that he will recover completely and have friends with him during this time, especially Deborah.
• ·        Hans - (in West Germany) his therapy now extended till March 2017 - a full nine months.  He begins working two half-days a week in a store.  He sounds happy.  Pray the Lord gives him peace in his new situation and guards his family while he is away.  Pray for those sharing this time with him that they truly care for him.  Most of all, pray he finds Christian companions and leaders wherever he is. 
• ·        Raven - who has been on her new cancer meds for over a year now, reports she is able to enjoy every moment the Lord is giving her.  Pray she will be found cancer-free.
• ·        Praise the Lord and pray for the many individuals in Russia, US, Australia, UK, Poland, Germany, France, Portugal, American Samoa, Romania, Ukraine, Estonia, Singapore, China, India and Alaska who are regularly reading the WeakDay Devotion on-line.  The blog seems to be gathering an audience in unexpected and mysterious geographic locations.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH ONGOING HEALTH CONCERNS

• ·        My brother, Tim - The weather is growing difficult for him.  Pray for sufficient strength, wisdom and health and pray also for Barb, Tim's wife, who supports and cares for him.  
• ·        David R - having blood pressure challenges again without his companion dog.  The Service Dog will not be available till June.  In the meantime, he is also looking for another lap dog.   
• ·        Fred I – will have surgery 10th January.  He thanks you for praying for him.  Continue to keep him in your prayers.
• ·        Patti (daughter of Doris) just had her birthday and has recently been diagnosed with asthma and is slowly improving.
• ·        BG - still having headaches (which they believe are mini-strokes).  He needs our prayers to strengthen him and keep him calm.  
• ·        Aunt Donna - (Doris' sister, age 84) has dementia. Please pray for her daughters for guidance in her care.
• ·        Joanne - sister to David R, who is being overwhelmed by dementia and macular degeneration.  She is one of the most gracious Christian women I have ever known. 
• ·        John and brother CK (78 years old)  both suffered strokes. Both now doing well with stroke recovery, but they get discouraged with memory recall challenges.  Please pray for more patience and grace. 
• ·        Sandy - Tests are inconclusive, yet her symptoms persist.  Pray for wise doctors.  They suspect Crohn's Disease.

PRAYERS SPECIFICALLY FOR SALVATION

• ·        Continue to pray for the special person you identified a few weeks ago in your assignment until they fall into His arms.  Then you can pick another to pray for!
• ·        Bobby and George - that they will begin to consider Christ.
• ·        Karen - who I spoke with recently about the Lord, that in her confusion and the chaos of her job, she will search for His peace.
• ·        JR's wife, Jenny - Please pray for Jenny and his family as they recover from his death that this time of vulnerability will be filled with His love. 
• ·        Adam - life is filled with confusion and need.  Pray someone comes alongside him to help him see how much the Lord cares for him.
• ·        Rachael asks please to pray that Scott (in the USA) seeks the Lord for his sake and his children.
• ·        Paul - is on a waiting list to have a surgical procedure to repair an injury he sustained while volunteering at Vinnies.  Pray for his heart to be touched through the experience.  I know the Lord is watching over him because of your prayers.  Most of all, pray his heart melts enough for the Truth to touch him where it hurts.  He has not had work since 2011!
• ·        Bible study in Jo's home continues.  You can feel Jo's excitement as these women grow a step closer to understanding how loving the Lord Jesus is! Keep praying for Angie and Liz.
• ·        Toron - (18-year-old) Pray for him to find direction and encouragement and most of all to come to the Lord. 
• ·        Lennie - PS ex-son-in-law.  Please pray for his salvation.  He is father to PS' 11 yr. old granddaughter's whom she spends half her time with because of shared custody.
• ·        UPDATE -Sarah - still urgently needs psychiatric care.  Still not communicating with family members, but God is starting to work in His mysterious ways in her life.  Pray the Lord captures her heart through this situation and that she will find someone to trust to help her. 
• ·        DB's father - (84 years) please keep praying his heart opens to Christ.  He is an avowed – and boastfully proud – atheist. 
• ·        Chester (Adrian's friend) with pancreatic cancer that someone will come share Christ with him soon.

ONGOING WORK RELATED

• ·        Sergio - his projects have ended and he is looking for work again.  He is in Mexico City where work for graphic designers is rare. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD

• ·        That the Lord's hand is dramatically apparent in the lives of all who receive and read these devotions.  That His mighty works will be worked out in each life for His purposes and glory in surprising and wonderful ways!
• ·        For Christ-centred, Bible-based revival in the USA and religious freedom for Christians wherever they may be.
• ·        Donald Trump - the new president-elect in the USA.  If ever there was a time to pray for an individual, it is now.  No matter whom you voted for or wanted as president...it is our responsibility as Christians to remember God has a plan through this man.  Let us pray someone helps him understand the full meaning of giving his life in faith to our gracious Saviour and that he will have someone to disciple him.  So much depends on it.
• ·        Pray for the growing number of displaced people from wars and famine.  These refugees need compassion.

FOR THOSE IN FULL-TIME SERVICE

• ·        Audley and Beverly (stroke survivor) for help with their situation.  They recently received word Medicaid will no longer provide home care for her.  Pray for wisdom for Audley as he cares for his beloved.  Pray also that God continues to multiply the effectiveness of his radio ministry in Florida.
• ·        Doug McIntosh - an invaluable contributor to my love of Bible study has multiple myelomas.  Please pray for him, his family and the church he has worked so faithfully in, Cornerstone, in Lilburn Georgia.
• ·        St Marks Anglican Church Northbridge - and the many who serve there:  especially the pastors: Simon Flinders, Adam Street (and their amazing wives and children).
• ·        Jo and Steve - Please pray their individual ministries in NZ and reconciliation with one of Jo's sisters. 
• ·        Stu and Jo and their grown children, Laura and Jason - a family serving in full-time ministry in New Zealand.  Keep them strong, healthy and resolute. 
• ·        Isaias and Judith - in the Philippines - a land that is growing increasingly chaotic and dangerous.  Pray our Father continues to keep them strong and safe and that they find balance.  They give so much to so many for so little.  Please, take a moment to learn more about their tireless ministry:  Go to:  http://www.afciworld.org  Look for "Nations" then click:   "Philippines".
• ·        Jenny S - a Bible teacher and expositor who serves in many areas, for strength, wisdom and protection.
• ·        Please pray for my good friend, JB, that our loving Father provides him ample opportunity to continue his ministry in Sydney.
• ·        Buddy and Susan Smith (in Queensland) and Kevin and Sandy Currell (in Melbourne) need your prayers for their ministries.
• ·        The Catholic Church and the Pope, who need our prayers that he will always put Jesus first in all his decisions.

SOMETHING NEW FOR PRAYER WARRIORS

• ·        Elaine and Jim -in Hong Kong have begun an online church with a special prayer room that is open 24/7.  A small army of dedicated prayer warriors is waiting to pray with you.  Please pray for them and go here to learn more:  Https://www.thelittlechurchworld.org/prayer-room

ONGOING PRAYER

• ·        Deepak - has worked tirelessly for years to develop his business and needs people to pay what they owe him and give him more time with his young daughter.   
• ·        Chris H - pray his heart is focused on the Lord and His will for his life and future.
• ·        Linda and Ian, Rob and his daughter, DB, PS, Reg, JD, Annette and Lyle, Carla and Paul, Jeff and Rachael and their wonderful families.  Grateful thanks for their practical support and encouragement over many years.